What happens if you wash a lighter in the washing machine?

The internet is full of shocking videos depicting the consequences of electrical appliance fires, particularly washing machines. It's widely believed that leaving a gas or petrol lighter in your pocket and starting a washing machine cycle can lead to a fire. Let's look at what can happen to your appliance if you wash a lighter in the washing machine and what to do if it does catch fire.

What happens to the lighter in SM?

The possibility of a machine catching fire after a lighter is dropped into it is nothing more than a myth. Even if a spark accidentally occurs during a wash cycle at too high a speed, it will be immediately extinguished by the wet clothes and water in the drum. Therefore, a lighter cannot cause a fire under any circumstances.

If a foreign object does get into the machine, simply dry it completely and it will function again. During washing, the lighter mechanism or gas reservoir may be damaged. In this case, the accessory will need to be repaired or replaced.

Damage to gasoline lighters can stain clothing. If the device is to be used again, it should be thoroughly dried and repaired if necessary. The metal surface should be wiped dry to prevent further corrosion. A cheap lighter can be discarded.

Causes of washing machine fires

It's not surprising for a washing machine to catch fire, as it's a household appliance powered by the electrical grid. During operation, the power cord, plug, socket, and internal components are constantly under voltage. Furthermore, the appliance is located in a humid environment, and the combination of all these factors can lead to a fire.

Important! The main factors causing washing machine fires are improper operation and poor assembly by unscrupulous manufacturers.

Structural parts that have the highest ignition risk:

• the socket to which the equipment is connected;
• electrical wiring inside the washing machine;
• electric motor windings that are sometimes exposed to water;
• contacts of the heating element, network filter and other elements.

Sometimes, a strong burning smell appears during the washing cycle without smoke, open flame, or other signs. This doesn't necessarily mean the washing machine will catch fire. This can happen in two ways. First, it often occurs during the first few uses of a new machine, as the new plastic elements aren't yet accustomed to high heat. Second, the unpleasant smell occurs when foreign objects, such as those dropped from pockets or loose fittings, get into the tubular electric heating element. You should clean the heating element yourself or have it professionally cleaned.

The car caught fire

If a fire does occur, don't immediately call the fire department or run out of the house in a panic. You can put out a fire that has just started yourself. First of all, it is important to disconnect the device from the electrical network.The cord should be pulled out of the outlet with dry hands. It's best to temporarily turn off the power to the entire apartment or house.

If an open flame appears on the surface of the washing machine, cover the device with a heavy blanket, throw, or other thick fabric to cut off oxygen supply. Do not attempt to extinguish the fire with water or open windows or doors until it is completely extinguished. If all else fails, call the fire department immediately.

   

2 reader comments

1. May 29, 2023 at 10:57 PM

   Anonymous:

   My machine held up

   Answer
2. July 23, 2024 at 12:45 PM

   Lera:

   We'd just washed some shorts, and there was a lighter in there. We discovered it just when we needed to light a cigarette. We lit it with a wet lighter, and nothing happened to it, the car, or us. 🙂

   Answer